How Do You Format a Will?

A will should begin with the heading "Last Will and Testament of (Your Full Legal Name)" and should proceed with a declaration of at least one executor and any other administrators as desired. List all beneficiaries and all assets and their market values. The will should also include bequests and should appoint guardians for any minor children, and you should describe how you wish for your remains to be disposed.

At the beginning of the will, include as much information as possible that can help identify you. Confirm that any previous iterations of your will are invalid and that you are of sound mind at the time of the writing.

You may choose to name a single executor or multiple task-specific administrators to look after your estate. If you do not name an executor, the state may appoint one for you. It is a good idea to name alternative administrators, in case the original choice is unable to act.

List all of your larger assets, such as property and cash assets. Provide addresses, account numbers and passwords. Any items that are not on the list become part of your estate's residual assets. List foreign assets separately, as they may be subject to different regulations.

When listing beneficiaries, include their names and their relationships to you. State what you are leaving to them. Assign a beneficiary to receive your residual assets.

After writing your will, sign it on every page in front of two witnesses who are not beneficiaries. They must confirm that they are of legal age and sound mind.